A recent poll conducted by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research indicates that fewer Americans view their country as exceptional. As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, only about 25% of respondents believe the U.S. stands above all other nations, while 44% consider it one of the greatest countries alongside others. This marks an increase in the percentage of individuals who believe there are better countries than the U.S., rising from 19% in a 2016 poll.
The survey highlights concerns regarding the future of representative government, particularly among younger demographics. Approximately two-thirds of U.S. adults now regard a democratically elected government as highly important to the nation's identity, a decrease from 80% in 2021.
Derricka Wall, a 24-year-old from Chickasaw, Alabama, expressed her belief that the issue lies not in democracy itself but in the politicians elected to office. The poll also reveals a generational divide, with younger adults less likely to view the U.S. as exceptional compared to older generations. For instance, 44% of adults under 30 believe other countries are better, while only 22% of those aged 60 and older share this view.
The perception of the American Dream is also shifting, with 51% of U.S. adults stating that the idea of achieving success through hard work no longer holds true. This skepticism is more pronounced among younger individuals, with only 22% of those under 30 believing in the American Dream compared to 46% of those aged 60 and older.
Political affiliation influences perceptions of both American exceptionalism and the American Dream, with a higher percentage of Republicans viewing the U.S. as exceptional compared to Democrats. The survey indicates that 57% of Republicans believe the American Dream is still attainable, in contrast to 17% of Democrats.
Overall, the findings reflect a growing cynicism about the U.S. as a land of opportunity and a decline in the belief that democracy is a core aspect of the nation's identity.